I'd Like To Surprise My Husband With A Luau For His 40th Birthday Party. What Are The Essentials?

Atmosphere is all for a luau-themed party -- that and a liberal dose of kitsch.
First, make it clear on the invitation that all guests are to come in costume: aloha shirts, bikini tops, grass skirts if available, leis, shorts, hair flowers, and sandals.If possible, hold the party outside. Flaming tiki torches are a must; plastic flamingos would be excellent. Set grass-mat placemats or a tablecloth on the ground, surrounded by pillows for seating. Use tropical flowers, pineapples,  and coconuts as a centerpiece.Serve the food family-style in big bowls. Encourage guests to dip out their portions with their hands, for a truly authentic experience.

Drinks, of course, must be rum-based with citrus juices and chunks of fruit floating in them. Mai-tais, daiquiris, and margaritas fill the bill. Don't forget the cheesy little umbrellas!
Serve Asian food with a lot of stir-fried vegetables and rice. The birthday cake must include pineapple or coconut. A party supply store should be able to provide tiny plastic hula girls and palms for decorations.And of course, don't forget the Don Ho and Hawaiian slack-key guitar CDs and one of Elvis' soundtrack for "Blue Hawaii"!